six years of learning and growing

simétrie turned 6 years old on the 14th of january, marking the day i first introduced my bags to the world. as i reflect on this milestone, i'm embracing 2025 with a theme of 'balance' - not in pursuit of perfection, but in creating space for growth and evolution in both life and craft. this theme of balance, embedded in my brand's very name through the french word for symmetry, has become increasingly meaningful as my journey unfolds.

the beginning

when i started simétrie, i envisioned a brand that would unite my deepest passions: engineering soft materials into sculptural forms, supporting migrant women in the fashion industry, and creating positive change through ethical and sustainable production. my background in fashion design drew me to the intricate challenge of creating pieces that balance minimalism with functionality - accessories that not only tell a story through their form but serve their purpose beautifully. this fascination with problem-solving - creating something distinct yet practical - continues to drive my design process today.

evolution of materials

the journey of materials has been one of thoughtful evolution and balance. beginning with vegetable-tanned kangaroo leather chosen for its natural durability and lower environmental impact, i initially focused on creating pieces that were 100% natural. today, i work with Leather Working Group certified australian bovine leather from Packer Leather in queensland, combining both chrome and vegetable tanning methods. i made this change to meet my customers where they are - choosing a more accessible material that offers both the natural look and durability of vegetable tanned leather, with the easy care of chrome tanned leather. this evolution reflects my understanding that sustainability isn't just about natural materials - it's about finding balance between ideals and practicality, creating pieces that truly integrate into people's lives.

crafting locally

maintaining local production while using australian materials remains central to my identity. it reduces environmental impact and preserves traditional skills, though it presents unique challenges in today's global market. i've had the privilege of working with skilled artisans like Cécile, Amy, Melody and Clém, who have each contributed to shaping simétrie's dedication to quality and craft.

milestones

these six years have brought meaningful milestones: five distinct collections, six bespoke pieces, four creative collaborations, and over 600 mindfully crafted bags finding their forever homes. during melbourne's lockdowns, i adapted by creating made-from-home kits, continuing to share the joy of crafts[wo]manship even when we couldn't gather in person.

looking forward

as a second-generation Australian/Mediterranean woman in fashion, i've learned to transform my unique perspectives into strengths that inform simétrie's approach to inclusive design and ethical production. through a studio-school model, i hope to contribute to the future of australian crafts[wo]manship by creating opportunities for diverse artisans and showing that local, ethical production is possible.

necessary changes

looking ahead, i need to make some significant changes to ensure simétrie's sustainability extends beyond materials. just as i've learned to balance different aspects of sustainability in my materials and processes, i've come to understand that a truly sustainable business must balance its ethical commitments with its financial health. after much reflection, i've realised that to continue creating mindfully made pieces and to generate positive impact in our industry and community, i need to increase my prices to better reflect the true value of my work. i wanted to share this news early, as i know many of you plan carefully to invest in my pieces. i deeply appreciate those of you who consciously set aside funds to make a simétrie purchase possible, just as i'm grateful for those who can more readily include my work in their lives. every purchase decision has impact beyond the initial moment - when you choose locally made, ethically produced pieces, you're helping to sustain the skills, jobs, and practices that make ethical fashion possible. if you've been considering adding a simétrie piece to your collection, i encourage you to do so while current pricing remains in effect.

growing together

my journey of growth continues with the expansion of my team. in september 2024, i welcomed Victoria to the atelier as my assistant. she brings fresh energy to the studio and is learning the intricate details of leather crafts[wo]manship under my guidance.

i'm also excited to announce the return of my in-person workshops in 2025, beginning with a bag charm making workshop on march 1st - please save the date.

as i step into this new chapter of simétrie, i'm filled with gratitude for the community that has supported this journey. your understanding of the value of handcrafted pieces, your patience with my evolution, and your trust in my vision have made these six years possible. the core of simétrie remains unchanged: creating mindfully made pieces that connect maker and wearer through craft, always seeking that perfect balance between tradition and innovation, between ideal and practical, between craft and commerce. here's to the next chapter of growth, learning, and most importantly, balance.